Also means
industriously, assiduously
Usage Note
Emsig suggests focused, energetic busyness, often with a slightly approving tone. Die Bienen arbeiteten emsig is a classic image. In human contexts it can be neutral or mildly flattering: Sie arbeitet emsig an ihrer Doktorarbeit.
Examples
"Die Studierenden arbeiteten emsig an ihren Abschlussarbeiten."
Natural Translation
The students were busily working on their theses.
Literal Translation
The students worked busily on their final-papers.

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